REASONS TO BUY
Budget-friendly
Warm
Windproof
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy
Bulky
Stiff fabric
The North Face Apex Bionic Hoodie Review
Perfect for casual and urban outings where cold wind or light rain might be expected
Credit: The North Face
Our Verdict
Both casual and athletically inspired, The North Face Apex Bionic Hoodie is a great jacket that is a perfect option for mostly urban outings. While it is heavier and bulkier than more technical layers, it is an excellent option for those seeking weather protection on cold and windy commutes, featuring a large hood and deep pockets. Because of its additional weather protection, the fabric feels stiffer and bulkier than we would hope for in a mountain-ready jacket, but for those looking for an inexpensive model that will provide an escape from the elements, this is a good choice.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on October 23, 2023 to share updates to the Apex Bionic Hoodie.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Apex Bionic we tested is on the left, with the latest model, the Apex Bionic 3, on the right.
New Version Available
Since our test cycle ended, The North Face released a newer version of this softshell called the Apex Bionic 3. According to TNF, this version has been slightly tweaked with a more streamlined design, and elastic has been added to the wrist cuffs. Although our review still reflects the previous model, we're linking to the Apex Bionic 3 Hoodie in our affiliate links.
Since our test cycle ended, The North Face released a newer version of this softshell called the Apex Bionic 3. According to TNF, this version has been slightly tweaked with a more streamlined design, and elastic has been added to the wrist cuffs. Although our review still reflects the previous model, we're linking to the Apex Bionic 3 Hoodie in our affiliate links.
The Apex Bionic is attractive and warm, ideal for urban outings and casual undertakings. It's not a technical layer, but not everything has to be, and this long-standing jacket is popular for a reason.
Performance Comparison
Cold days at the beach are another perfect place to take the Bionic Hoodie for a walk
Credit: Ryan Huetter
Weather Protection
Weather protection is one of the metrics we feel that Apex Bionic shines. It is warm and does a great job of keeping you comfortable. The fabric used in this jacket is a proprietary wind-blocking shell with a tight exterior weave to keep the icy gusts from getting inside. It's treated with a DWR water-resistant coating so that even if you forget your umbrella, you can still make it to your destination without getting soaked to the bone. A large hood provides extra coverage and is adjustable to get a tight seal on the coldest of days. Two zippered handwarmer pockets let you get your hands out of the wind. We do wish the cuffs had an adjustment to seal tighter around the wrist.
Water-resistance testing with the Bionic 2.
Credit: Ryan Huetter
Breathability
Breathability was not one of the strong suits of this jacket. It is the heaviest jacket in our review due to the thickness of the wind-blocking fabric and the fleece backing. Because of this, we did not find the Bionic to do very well at allowing perspiration to pass through, although we can forgive that based on the intended application of this jacket.
Nice and soft fleece makes this a comfortable interior lining.
Credit: Ryan Huetter
This is not the softshell that you would choose to go on a strenuous hike, climb a mountain, or go ski touring. It is designed for much lower-key activity, so while it doesn't score particularly well in breathability, don't let that deter you if you are looking for a primarily in-town layer.
Cuffs are not adjustable but provide decent coverage
Credit: Ryan Huetter
Mobility
As we mentioned above, the bulkiness of the fabric used on the Apex takes away from its breathability and also affects its mobility. Wearing this jacket feels fairly stiff and cumbersome, even when worn over a very light inner layer. This has to do with the lack of stretch on the outer layer and the boxy cut. It looks great, but when you go to make athletic moves, the jacket feels constricting.
Again, the caveat is that we are looking at this jacket through the lens of athletic mountain sports. For those who need a jacket for walks and light day hikes, this softshell has an adequate amount of mobility.
The hood adjustments are a bit wonky and difficult to use one handed, scrunching up tightly around the face.
Credit: Ryan Huetter
Weight
This is not a light jacket by any metric. The Bionic Hoodie tips the scales at 27.4 ounces — almost four times the weight of the lightest jacket in our review. But let's look at why it is so heavy and why that might not matter to you.
This coat has a thick inner fleece lining that really increases the weight. Add in the burly windproof fabric and a generously cut hood, and you end up with a pretty heavy jacket. Here, that weight means extra weather protection, and if you don't plan on carrying it with you in a backpack, then the weight and bulk penalty probably won't make a difference.
The North Face Bionic 2 is among the heaviest of our tested jackets.
Credit: Ryan Huetter
Versatility
We have sung the praises of this jacket when it comes to offering great weather protection, comfort, and warmth. Unfortunately, those attributes make it a heavy and bulky outer layer that does not do well in athletic activities, limiting its versatility to casual outings.
Relaxing on the patio during a chilly spring day? A great place for the Apex Bionic to shine.
Credit: Ryan Huetter
Value
This softshell jacket provides a decent value, especially for its weather protection. For the right casual user, it's a solid purchase.
Conclusion
The North Face Apex Bionic Hoodie is stylish and a good option for those who require weather protection and comfort but don't plan on needing to use it for vigorous outdoor sports.
—
Ryan Huetter
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